A weekend outing at one of the Southeast’s best-known drive-thru animal parks took a frightening turn Saturday. According to reports, a falling tree limb struck the side of a horse-drawn wagon at Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, North Carolina, startling the horses. The animals jumped, and three passengers fell from the wagon. All three were taken to a hospital, and their conditions were not available as of Sunday. The driver and horses were unharmed, and other riders were either uninjured or declined treatment.
What makes this story stand out is the rarity. Ranch officials said this is the first incident in the attraction’s history that resulted in hospitalizations requiring an overnight stay, despite having hosted more than three million wagon ride guests over the years. Lazy 5 Ranch, located in Rowan County, remains a popular day-trip destination for families across the Charlotte region.
For Suncoast residents planning fall outings, the incident is a reminder that seasonal hazards like falling limbs aren’t limited to hurricane cleanup. Heavy leaves and gusty autumn winds can bring down dead branches without warning, especially around older trees. Ranch officials said their thoughts are with everyone affected and their families. Have you ever had a close call on a wagon ride or at a drive-thru zoo? Share your story in the comments.
